My muscles screamed at me in protest as I paddled harder than I’ve ever had in my life. I could hear my pursuers not far bring. I had no idea what they wanted with me, all my mother told me was to just keep paddling till you reach the end of the river. I had no idea what she meant, and the end of the river? The river could go on for decades, passing through multiple states.

The locket my mother gave before she sent me off dangled as I pushed harder against the water. Could it have something to do with the locket, I wonder. The locket was circular shaped with a tiny key attach to the chain. I couldn’t dwell much on the possibilities. Right now the only thing I need to worry about is our paddling my pursuers.

I could hear them yelling in frustration, my arms ached every time the paddle board hit the water. I looked beyond me, finally the sun was rising to light up the dark night. I just have to keep paddling until I found safety. The locket softly hit my chest with each move. Oh Mother, I thought, what do you want me to do?